Daijiworld Media Network - Leh
Leh, Apr 10: Kargil war hero and Mahavir Chakra awardee Sonam Wangchuk (Retd), popularly known as the ‘Lion of Ladakh’, passed away due to a heart attack at his residence in Ladakh on Friday. He was 61.
A decorated officer of the Indian Army, Wangchuk was among the earliest heroes of the Kargil War, with his illustrious career spanning over three decades across multiple operational theatres.
Born in 1964 in Leh, he pursued schooling at Modern School, Barakhamba Road, and later graduated in History from Sri Venkateswara College, Delhi University. He was commissioned into the 4th Battalion of the Assam Regiment through the Officers Training Academy, Chennai.
During his service, he was part of counter-insurgency operations in the Northeast and also served in India’s IPKF mission in Sri Lanka before joining the Ladakh Scouts, a specialised high-altitude unit.
His most notable feat came during the night of May 30–31, 1999, in the Batalik sector, when he led a mission to secure Chorbat La. Despite heavy enemy fire, he launched a daring counter-ambush, neutralised enemy positions and secured the strategic ridge, earning him the Mahavir Chakra.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid tribute to the officer, describing him as a “proud son of Ladakh” who exemplified courage, resilience and dedication to the nation. He noted that Wangchuk’s actions during Operation Vijay inspired troops under extreme high-altitude conditions.
Col Wangchuk’s life stands as a testament to bravery, sacrifice and unwavering service to the nation.